Articles tagged with Sars Cov 2
A global study found that COVID-19 patients who undergo surgery experience substantially worse postoperative outcomes than similar patients without SARS-CoV-2 infection. Mortality rates approach those of the sickest patients admitted to intensive care after contracting the virus in the community.
The study found that SARS-CoV-2 infects nasal-lining cells more efficiently than lower-airway cells, suggesting the importance of wearing masks to limit transmission. The researchers also discovered a new reverse genetic platform for SARS-CoV-2, which will support national vaccine efforts.
Researchers found that warmer temperatures slow COVID-19 transmission until around 50°F, but further warming has little impact. A higher UV index also slows growth rate of new cases.
A new study found that post-operative pulmonary complications occurred in half of patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection who underwent surgery, resulting in high mortality rates. The study suggests that thresholds for surgery should be raised compared to normal practice.
Researchers identify SARS-CoV-2's entry route into the central nervous system and report neurological complications of COVID-19 in a narrative review. Potential tissue targets are also identified for future research to understand the neuropathogenesis of coronaviruses.
A new study of 84 patients reveals that the first COVID-19 cases in New York City were mainly introduced through untracked transmission from Europe and the US, with limited evidence suggesting a potential Asian origin. The findings also highlight the importance of early and broad testing to identify community transmission clusters.
Researchers found that SARS-CoV-2 originated from a bat coronavirus and gained the ability to infect humans through exchanging a gene fragment with a pangolin coronavirus. The virus's genetic material was altered to bind to host cells, making it possible for it to infect human respiratory and intestinal epithelial cells.
A global study found that COVID-19 patients undergoing surgery experience substantially worse postoperative outcomes than similar patients without SARS-CoV-2 infection. The study reported a 30-day mortality rate of 23.8%, with higher rates in men, older patients, and those with severe pre-existing medical problems.
A new study proposes that SARS-CoV-2's emergence was facilitated by genetic recombination among bat and pangolin coronaviruses. The virus' receptor binding motif was introduced through recombination with pangolin coronaviruses.
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a significant reduction in cardiac surgeries worldwide, with an average of 50-75% decrease in procedures. Hospitals are now working to resume operations while protecting patients and staff from SARS-CoV-2. Experts have developed recommendations for safely resuming cardiac surgery activity.
Asymptomatic individuals can spread SARS-CoV-2 via aerosols, highlighting the importance of mask-wearing and physical distancing. Research estimates that a single minute of loud speaking can generate up to 100,000 virion-containing aerosols, which can remain airborne for hours.
A Canadian study found strong associations between SARS-CoV-2 infection and loss of smell (anosmia) and changes in taste (dysgeusia). The study identified these symptoms as common features of COVID-19, suggesting they should prompt testing and possible retesting for those with negative initial results.
Researchers created a mouse model that produces human angiotensin-converting enzyme II (hACE2), the receptor SARS-CoV-2 binds to. The mice exhibited robust viral RNA replication in the lung and brain, as well as interstitial pneumonia. These features replicate those observed in COVID-19 patients.
A joint research team led by Sunney Xie has identified multiple highly potent neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 from convalescent plasma. These antibodies provide a potential cure for COVID-19 and offer short-term prevention, marking a major milestone in the fight against the pandemic.
Growing evidence suggests masks can prevent spread of COVID-19 via aerosols. Studies estimate up to 100,000 infectious aerosols can be generated in one minute of loud speaking.
The release of 216 SARS-CoV-2 genomes from Austria provides insights into the virus's transmission cluster and genetic diversity. The data analysis reveals a highly diverse pool of circulating viruses, with some leading to bigger transmission clusters, and identifies key mutations in the viral S protein.
A recent review paper highlights the potential of using wastewater to monitor COVID-19, detecting low levels of virus particles and asymptomatic cases. The method offers several advantages over clinical testing, but challenges include a lack of standardized protocols and knowledge on viral decay in water environments.
Investigating potential adverse effects and antibody-dependent enhancement is crucial for vaccine development. Comprehensive safety tests are necessary before widespread implementation.
Researchers have developed a membrane that can be attached to regular N95 masks, improving virus filtration efficiency and extending mask lifespan. The new filter, made from silicon-based material, features nanoporous structure with smaller pore sizes, blocking more SARS-CoV-2 particles.
A new case study reports the first known case of subacute thyroiditis after COVID-19 infection, according to The Endocrine Society. Patients with COVID-19 may experience additional symptoms such as neck and thyroid pain, fever, and an increased heart rate.
The review examines how long immunity to coronaviruses lasts and the prospect of antibody testing. Professors Paul Kellam and Wendy Barclay discuss what is known about immune responses to SARS-CoV-2 and other coronaviruses, including seasonal strains that circulate in humans every winter.
A case series examines COVID-19 symptoms among residents and staff in an independent/assisted living community, emphasizing the need for SARS-CoV-2 surveillance. The study highlights the risk of outbreaks in these settings and underscores the importance of implementing effective infection control measures.
New studies in macaques demonstrate protective immunity against SARS-CoV-2 after initial infection or vaccination, with vaccinated animals exhibiting similar immune responses to humans. The findings offer promising results for the development of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines and treatments.
The HEROS study will examine the rate of SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 symptom development among children with allergic conditions versus those without. The study aims to fill knowledge gaps on how the novel coronavirus affects young populations.
Researchers at BIDMC developed prototype COVID-19 vaccines that induced neutralizing antibody responses and protected against SARS-CoV-2 in rhesus macaques. The studies also found that individuals who recovered from COVID-19 developed natural protective immunity against re-infection.
Researchers propose a molecular mechanism that causes COVID-19's most destructive complications, including acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), through a massive release of proinflammatory cytokines triggered by the SARS-CoV-2 virus's entry into human cells via ACE2 receptor and TMPRSS2 enzyme.
Researchers have discovered a potential coronavirus therapy using structural biology and X-ray crystallography. The study revealed that antibodies derived from SARS survivors can potently block entry of SARS-CoV-2 into host cells, with one candidate antibody showing promising results.
A study found that SARS-CoV-2 RNA is edited by human deaminase enzymes in patients, influencing the virus' evolution and spread. This process may be targeted with new therapies to combat the virus.
A climate-driven epidemiological model found that population susceptibility is a key driver of the COVID-19 pandemic, with climate factors having a modest impact. The model suggested that even in tropical cities, outbreak growth remained significant despite humid conditions.
Researchers found that patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 produce antibodies that bind to other coronaviruses, but these antibodies are not cross-protective. The study suggests that more research is needed to identify critical virus parts for a cross-protective immune response.
The study reveals the coincidence of biological and social factors, including the Chinese New Year celebrations and increased international mobility, which amplified the outbreak. The authors also emphasize the importance of addressing environmental alterations and human activities related to wild animals to prevent future pandemics.
Serological assays detect SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies in recovered individuals' blood, informing prevalence and immunity questions. Studies must better address the limitations of these tools to inform accurate decisions about deploying the workforce.
Researchers investigated ACEIs/ARBs in adults with SARS-CoV-2 infection and found no increased risk. The use of these drugs is recommended for patients with COVID-19 unless further data show otherwise.
A study of 3,802 people tested for SARS-CoV-2 found that older age, male sex, deprivation, and ethnic minority status were linked to a positive test result. Chronic kidney disease and obesity also showed significant associations with a positive test.
The HIV Vaccine Trials Network (HVTN) and HIV Prevention Trials Network (HPTN) launched a new clinical trial to study immune responses in SARS-CoV-2 infected individuals. The trial aims to develop antibody assays for reliable detection of SARS-CoV-2 infection, which will aid in the development and testing of a safe and effective vaccine.
Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt used a cell culture model to test compounds against SARS-CoV-2 virus, finding several that slowed down or stopped virus reproduction. The findings enable the search for an active substance to be narrowed down to approved drugs.
Research suggests pangolins may be natural carriers of Betacoronaviruses, increasing risk of animal-to-human transmission. The study does not support the idea that pangolins are an intermediate host for SARS-CoV-2.
Scientists have discovered a strong immune response to SARS-CoV-2 in people who have recovered from COVID-19, which provides a benchmark for testing vaccine candidates. The study also found substantial cross-reactivity against common cold coronaviruses, suggesting potential preexisting immunity.
Daniel Preston, a Rice engineer, has received a National Science Foundation grant to investigate the effect of varying temperatures on SARS-CoV-2. His project aims to provide evidence-based guidelines for PPE sterilization and predict virus lifetime in different climates.
Two neutralizing antibodies, B38 and H4, have been identified against SARS-CoV-2. Preliminary tests in a mouse model show reduced virus titers, suggesting therapeutic benefits and potential for vaccine development.
A study of de-identified hospital records and surveillance data found 4.4% of France's population was infected with SARS-CoV-2 by May 11. The authors suggest this level of immunity is insufficient for controlling a second wave, highlighting the need for continued control measures.
Researchers found that tiny RNAs that target the SARS-CoV-2 virus are associated with over 72 biological processes and decline with age and underlying medical conditions. The study suggests that replenishing these microRNAs could help restore immunity against the virus.
Researchers have discovered that increasing levels of lipid mediators derived from omega-3 fatty acids can turn off inflammation caused by SARS-CoV-2, a hallmark symptom of severe COVID-19 illness. This approach may be as important as antiviral therapies or vaccines in reducing associated organ damage and mortality.
A team of researchers from Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center adapted their lab to test patient samples for SARS-CoV-2 with a 'home-brew' assay, achieving over 3,000 tests with under 24-hour turnaround time. The test's flexibility and scalability make it an essential tool in the fight against COVID-19.
A new bat coronavirus, RmYN02, discovered in Yunnan province, China, is closely related to SARS-CoV-2. The virus contains natural insertions at the spike protein's junction, similar to SARS-CoV-2, suggesting it evolved naturally.
A diverse range of vaccine approaches is needed to address the global need for COVID-19 protection, with harmonized oversight bodies, shared criteria, and data sharing crucial for success. The ACTIV public-private partnership aims to scale up vaccine manufacturing capacity and distribution chains.
Researchers discovered that older mice made more of the two proteins in nasal cells than younger ones, explaining why older people are more susceptible to COVID-19. The study also found that sustentacular cells could potentially be infected by SARS-CoV-2, providing a route to infect the brain.
Researchers at the University of Huddersfield are using lullabies to spread vital healthcare messages, including COVID-19 precautions, among African women. The Life-Saving Lullabies project has received £129,795 funding and aims to create zero-cost awareness campaigns that could be replicated globally.
Researchers investigated semen tests in men infected with SARS-CoV-2, finding notable differences in test results and clinical features. The study revealed distinct patterns of sperm abnormalities and hormone imbalances among these patients.
A newly developed inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccine candidate protected macaques from infection and neutralized multiple virus strains without ADE risk. Clinical trials with the PiCoVacc are expected to begin later this year.
Researchers have isolated and characterized an antibody that can bind to SARS-CoV-2 and neutralize the virus, providing a potential antiviral drug candidate. The antibody targets a conserved epitope on the spike protein of the virus.
Researchers at Cornell University have discovered a unique feature in the virus that causes COVID-19, which could explain its high transmissibility. The study identified a structural loop in the spike protein and a specific sequence of amino acids that are different from other human coronaviruses.
Researchers identified close to 200 recurrent genetic mutations in the virus, suggesting it may be adapting and evolving to its human hosts. The study found a large proportion of global genetic diversity is concentrated in hardest-hit countries, indicating extensive global transmission from early on.
A new survey of gig economy workers in San Francisco reveals a workforce with limited job security and few employment rights. The study found that many workers rely on public assistance despite working long hours.
Several hepatitis C drugs and a natural substance from Japanese honeysuckle have shown high affinity to bind SARS-CoV-2, potentially preventing infection. The study's results need to be verified in laboratory experiments and clinical studies.
Researchers at ASU have found a unique SARS-CoV-2 mutation with 81 deleted letters, similar to one from the 2003 SARS outbreak. The discovery was made using next-generation sequencing technology and has attracted global interest from scientists, including the World Health Organization.
A NIH-funded study aims to measure the rate of novel coronavirus infection in US children and their family members, as well as the percentage of infected children who develop COVID-19. The study also explores whether asthma or other allergic conditions affect SARS-CoV-2 infection rates.
Recently recovered COVID-19 patients exhibit varied immune responses to SARS-CoV-2 proteins. High concentrations of neutralizing antibodies and IFNγ-secreting T cells were detected in some patients, indicating potential for vaccine targeting the receptor-binding domain. The study's findings have implications for designing effective vac...
Researchers identified the cleavage of furin as crucial for SARS-CoV-2 entry into host cells. The study also found potential starting points for therapy and live attenuated vaccines by exploring coronaviruses with similar activation sequences in animals, enabling the virus to spread in humans.
Researchers mapped the glycan-processing states of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein using high-resolution mass spectrometry. The study found that SARS-CoV-2 glycans differ from typical host glycan processing, which may impact vaccine effectiveness.